Solving Einstein’s Equations of GR • 1917: Einstein constructs model of the universe that is eternal and static • begin by postulating `cosmological principle’: “Universe looks everywhere the same!” (homogeneity and isotropy) • today, we know
this is an excellent approximation, but in 1917, it was merely an inspired guess!

Solving Einstein’s Equations of GR • 1917: Einstein constructs model of the universe that is eternal and static